Over the first three years of my sobriety, I probably attended over 500 meetings across several states and time zones. During that time, I experienced a wide variety of AA meetings: small-town Alano Club meetings and big-city home groups. Meetings in the Pacific Northwest, East Coast, and California. There were participation meetings, speaker meetings, candlelight meetings, meditation meetings, young people’s meetings, men’s stags, book studies, book discussion groups, Twelve and Twelve meetings, back-to-basics meetings, panels, house meetings, and many more.
Of all those early meetings, my favorites were the ones that I now think of as “service-oriented” meetings. These were often larger meetings, typically with a speaker format, that emphasized and celebrated service. As you walked in, you’d be greeted by a line of people eager to shake your hand and ask your name. Inside, there were often well-dressed individuals ready to serve coffee or talk to you about the literature table. People would arrive an hour early to set up and stay long after to clean up. The meeting itself ran smoothly, with sponsorship coordinators, cleanup crews, and 7th Tradition collectors all working together.
From the moment I encountered these meetings, I was drawn to them. Over the years, I’ve actively sought them out. I find them, for lack of a better word, intoxicating. They make me feel like I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be—like I’m home.
In contrast, many of the early meetings I attended struggled to find people willing to serve in positions. At my first home group, I served as secretary for five months beyond my term because no one else stepped up. So, how is it that these larger, service-oriented groups, brimming with people filling every service position, attract so many to serve?
Looking back, I think it comes down to two key things: example and opportunity.
In these groups, older members set an example of what service looks like. They fulfill service positions—often humble ones—with joy and consistency, deriving satisfaction from roles like making coffee, standing in the greeting line, or giving the treasurer’s report.
And they create abundant opportunities for service. They establish many small, manageable positions so newcomers can get involved. If all the positions are filled, they create new ones on the spot, ensuring no one is left out. These groups offer tangible, accessible ways for newcomers to participate in the meeting’s facilitation.
I believe I can take this lesson and apply it at every level of my service work within AA. I can set an example by being of service and create opportunities for others to join me. When it comes to attracting members into service, it doesn’t need to be complicated—it’s about leading by example and providing opportunities.
With that in mind, I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve as your Area Language Coordinator for Panel 75. This month, I’ve been learning the responsibilities of the role, booking Spanish interpretation for the upcoming GSR School for Districts 1, 57, and 58, as well as for the upcoming Grapevine/Literature Quarterly. More importantly, I’ve been forming the Language Steering Committee. We have a few enthusiastic members already, but we’re looking for more! So, if you’re looking for an opportunity to be of service, even in a small way, please don’t hesitate to email me at languagechair@area72aa.org.
Thank you, Area 72, for setting an example and giving me an opportunity to serve.
